Arsenal are hoping to extend their winning run of five games in all competitions as they lock horns with Crystal Palace at Emirates on Thursday. The Gunners have secured three back to back victories in the Premier League and are coming on the back of a 2-0 triumph over Newcastle United in the FA Cup. Therefore, they remain the undisputed favourites heading into this game, even though the Eagles are more than capable of causing a setback.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup Vs Crystal Palace
Defence
Mikel Arteta had made a lot of changes to the side that faced Newcastle United on the weekend. He is likely to revert those changes this time around, even in the defensive unit.
The central defensive combination of Pablo Mari and Rob Holding has worked well in recent weeks, and with Gabriel Magalhaes still being a doubt heading into this game, we may see the duo continue at the heart of the four-man backline.
Another change in defence should see Hector Bellerin coming in for Cedric Soares. The Spaniard’s experience and leadership could be critical as Arsenal look to make it five out of five in all competitions.
Kieran Tierney, meanwhile, should retain his place at left-back while Bernd Leno should also remain in goal, ahead of new signing Runar Alex Runarsson this midweek.
Midfield
Arteta will be confident of having Thomas Partey available for this match. However, it remains unlikely that he will be rushed back into the starting lineup like last time. It could thus allow Granit Xhaka and Dani Ceballos to form the double-pivot for the second time in a row in the Premier League with Mohamed Elneny settling for a place on the bench.
Partey is almost guaranteed to feature as a substitute during the second half or even in the late stages of the game.
Attack
Arsenal faced a huge blow on the weekend when Gabriel Martinelli picked up another injury during training. The Brazilian remains uncertain for this one, which could make the job a bit easier for Arteta in terms of team selection.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who had spearheaded the Arsenal attack against Newcastle, should return to his left-wing role, thus allowing Alexandre Lacazette to come back into the eleven. Bukayo Saka is also expected to make his return to the side, at the expense of Nicolas Pepe.
The Englishman should feature out wide, creating the creative trifecta alongside Aubameyang and Emile Smith Rowe, who should reclaim his number ten role this midweek.
